LeShuttle, the popular cross-channel car rail service connecting the UK and France, offers a great alternative to flying for short haul travel around Europe this summer. The door-to-door driving experience provides an unparalleled level of convenience and flexibility, allowing travellers to avoid airport queues, make stops enroute, take their pets, and be in charge of their own schedule. With return tickets starting at £138* per vehicle this summer, you’ll also be saving a huge amount compared to flights and car hire.
…plus when you factor in getting to the airport, 2h+ check in times and transfers, are you really saving that much time by flying to European destinations?
Top 10 reasons to choose a self-drive holiday with LeShuttle:
1 Greater flexibility
Unlike flying, LeShuttle allows travellers to maintain control over their journey. The ability to choose departure times, transport pets and carry unrestricted luggage provides an unmatched level of convenience and flexibility. Leave when you want, stop when you want, take as long as you want.
If you splash out on a Flexiplus upgrade, you can just turn up and get straight onto the next train without queuing. Stretch your legs and pick up some refreshments in the Flexiplus lounge (on both sides of the Channel) for the full VIP treatment.
2 Avoid the airport
No need to turn up 2-3 hours early, queuing for check in and security, and dealing with the crowds. Just get in your car and go!
3 Lower cost
The cost of flights and car hire has significantly increased in recent years, making LeShuttle a much cheaper way to travel to Europe, particularly for groups and families. With LeShuttle, you pay per car not per person. There are no baggage charges, no charges for seats or legroom, and you can take your dog too and save on kennel fees! Add a roof box or trailer if you need (an extra fee applies), and throw the bikes on too. Enjoy the convenience of taking your own vehicle, avoiding the need to rent one at your destination.
4 Comfort
Avoid the cramped seating and limited legroom associated with flying. You don’t have to leave the comfort of your vehicle, but there is the opportunity to stretch your legs inside the spacious shuttles. The 35 minute journey is smooth and stable, without turbulence or any concerns about bad weather affecting take off or landing!
Being behind the wheel of your own car means you’re free to travel at your own pace and make stops as and when you need to, whether you need to stretch your legs or get some food.
5 Reduce your carbon footprint
LeShuttle is one of the greenest ways to travel between the UK and the continent, and will help you keep your carbon footprint low. All LeShuttle trains are electric (from low carbon sources), therefore no air pollution and very low greenhouse gas emissions.
6 More room for luggage
Taking a car allows you to pack in more than aircraft baggage allowance permits, which is perfect for those who don’t fancy travelling lightly. You can even add a roof box or trailer for more space, and throw the bikes on the back or top of the car. Take advantage of tax free shopping too and stock up. A wide variety of goods qualify for a VAT refund (up to 20%) including cosmetics, technology, jewellery, and food and drink items.
7 Take the scenic route
Once in France you can easily drive in one go to your destination, but why not head ‘off-piste’ and enjoy the journey. Stop overnight in one of the 17 beautiful French wine regions or maybe Paris, Lyon or Geneva. Take your time, get creative and stop to enjoy Europe’s many beautiful towns, cities and nature parks. Bruges is only an hour’s drive from Calais, and you can reach Germany in 4 hours.
8 No airport transfers
Airport transfers to hotels or resorts can involve waiting on other passengers, baggage issues and other delays, and can involve quite a long trip on a coach. Driving yourself means you can get straight to your accommodation, plus you save on expensive airport parking or taxi journeys.
9 Family friendly
Driving is great for families. You can stop frequently at service stations and laybys to let the children stretch their legs, and the constant change of scenery can help to keep them occupied. The family car is also a more familiar environment than an aeroplane, so they’ll find it easier to relax and nod off.
10 Dog friendly
Unlike when travelling by plane, dogs can accompany you in the car with LeShuttle and even have the chance to blow off some steam in the designated pet exercise areas before boarding the shuttle. Also, not only dogs are permitted on board the service; cats, ferrets and other pets are welcome.